First Team

Delighted Djoum

Cameroon star thrilled to be back on scoresheet in superb Motherwell victory.

Arnaud Djoum was delighted as his first goal of the season helped Hearts to an excellent 3-1 win away to Motherwell on Friday night.

The Jambos recorded their first win at Fir Park in almost six years as goals from Djoum, Sam Nicholson and a rocket from Callum Paterson earned Robbie Neilson's side all three points.

Having gone into the game on the back of two dominant yet scoreless performances, Djoum spoke of his pleasure at the manner of their return to winning ways.

“It was a very satisfying night for us,” said Djoum. “We defended well like we’ve been doing lately, but this time we got the goals along with it. It’s easier to win games scoring a lot of goals, so we’re happy to get back to winning.

“The gaffer told us it was important to make sure we didn’t lose any ground going into the international break, and now we have to make sure we continue to play like this if we want to have a good season.”

When asked if he felt he was returning to his best form for Hearts, Arnaud stated that he felt his display was the season’s best so far and affirmed his desire to maintain that level of performance.

“This was my best game of the season so far,” admitted the Cameroon star. “I felt great tonight, and I really enjoyed it, and I need to continue to play this way if I want to stay in the national team and the Hearts team too.

“For me personally, it was great to score again. It was my first goal of the season and first away goal too, as I’d only scored at Tynecastle before tonight.

“It was a nice goal, although I think Callum’s goal was something very special, he did score the best goal. I’m happy with mine though, and the win makes it feel even better.”

Lastly, the midfielder reserved words of praise for captain Perry Kitchen, with the American international proving a vital cog in the Robbie Neilson tactical machine.

Complimenting his defensive mindset, Djoum said that Kitchen’s style of play suited his perfectly and that he felt he could only flourish playing alongside the former DC United man.

“When I play with Perry, I am more comfortable,” he revealed. “I know I can go forward and not worry so much about covering, because he’s there, so I can focus on attacking.

“He is a great player, and we understand each other’s games. He lets me play the way I want to, so I love playing in the same team as him.”